The birthplace of Franz Schubert (1797-1828) in Vienna is undergoing extensive renovation and modernization. The listed building in the 9th district is scheduled to reopen with a new permanent exhibition by the 200th anniversary of the composer's death. The Vienna Museum, which houses Schubert's birthplace, and the City of Vienna presented the renovation plans on Wednesday.

Presentation of plans for Schubert's birthplace

The two floors of the house, built in 1731, as well as the courtyard and garden, will be made accessible to visitors. The historic facade will be restored, and all building services and electrical systems will be modernized. The ground floor will house a music studio for educational programs and a 70-seat concert hall. In addition, there will be a ticket office, a shop, and restrooms.

A permanent exhibition is being created on the upper floor, covering 210 square meters, twice the previous size. "In seven rooms, the life and work of Franz Schubert, as well as Vienna between 1800 and 1830, will be presented in a contemporary and varied way," said Elke Doppler, curator of the Vienna Museum.

The Vienna Museum is financing the renovation and modernization of the building at Nußdorfer Straße 54, as well as the redesign of the permanent exhibition. The City of Vienna's construction and building management department is contributing to the investment costs for selected trades.

"The music of Franz Schubert is deeply rooted in Vienna, and at the same time it belongs to the whole world," said Vienna's City Councillor for Cultural Affairs, Veronica Kaup-Hasler (SPÖ). With his songs, his chamber music, and much more, the composer created a musical cosmos that resonates in every concert hall in the world. "With the comprehensive renovation of his birthplace, we are not only preserving his legacy, but also making Vienna's musical history come alive anew," she emphasized.

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